Ask The Vet RadioShow Notes

Show #: 06-130

Show Description: "Pet Cancer"

Audio Files: ATVR-06-130.mp3, ATVR-06-130.wma

This week on Ask The Vet Radio Dr. Jeff Phillips, Assistant Professor of Oncology from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, joined us for the entire program to discuss pet cancer.  Most pet owners do not realize that cancer can affect pets, too.  Dr. Phillips informed listeners about the different types of cancer pets can acquire, how it is diagnosed, which pets are most susceptible, and the types of treatment available once an animal is diagnosed.  Dr. Tracy Dewhirst also provided listeners with a list of cancer symptoms that could lead to early diagnosis and a better chance of recovery! 

Show Notes and Resources:

In-Studio Guest:  Dr. Jeff Phillips, Assistant Professor of Oncology from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine

  • Pet cancer is very similar to the human form of cancer.  Many types of cancers that affect elderly individuals also affect elderly pets.  The diagnostics and treatments are also extremely similar.  The biggest difference between the animal and human form of cancer is that lung and intestinal cancer are highly common in humans but not in pets.  The most common form of cancer in pets is skin tumors and mass cell tumors.  Treatment also varies between animals and humans.  In humans, survival is preferred at all cost.  In veterinary medicine, treatment is administered only with the possibility of a higher quality of life.  Many times treatment may not be in the best interest of the animal because of the impact extensive treatment can have on their body.  A dog that is 10 years of age is considered age 60-70 in human years (depending on the breed) and at a high risk for cancer.  If the dog can benefit from treatment and live an extra year, the life extension is compared to an additional 5-7 human years. 
  • Every animal is susceptible to cancer.  The University of Tennessee treats many exotic animals such as reptiles, birds, ferrets, horses, and even tigers!  Cancer is the #1 cause of death in animals over the age of 10 and the #2 overall cause of death in pets. 
  • In dogs, cancer is frequently found through an abnormal lump under the chin or on other parts of their bodies.   The most common tumors found in dogs are skin tumors (mass cell tumors).  Skin tumors can resemble many different types of problems and are usually very malignant.  Skin tumors can take the form of red bumps, knots under deeper tissue (that can only be felt), bald spots, and knots visual to the naked eye.  80% of skin tumors can be treated with surgical removal alone.  Once the lab results are in, the oncologist can determine the type of mass cell it is, what stage it is in, and the best options for treatment.  Aggressive tumors are fairly uncommon but may require additional therapy such as radiation and chemotherapy if diagnosed.  Bone tumors in dogs can result in amputation followed by chemotherapy.  Some radical institutions replace bone deficits with surgical implants, but amputation is used most frequently.  The most common signs for bone cancer are acute lameness and limping. 
  • While only 20-30 % of tumors are malignant in dogs, 40-60% of tumors found in cats are malignant.  The most common forms of cancer in cats are skin cancer, tumors, white blood cell (mass cell) tumors, and mammary tumors. 
  • Cancer is primarily the result of genetics.  Unfortunately, finding an animal with a cancer-free line can be difficult because most animals give birth early in life and do not develop cancer until much later.  Identifying the genetic components of cancer can help with the development of better therapies and make early detection more common.  If the family history is known, an animal with family members who have developed cancer is considered a higher risk for developing the disease.  Some breeds such as Labradors and Boxers have a higher predisposition for acquiring cancer. 
  • If you ever suspect a problem or notice anything abnormal (such as a lump), get your pet checked out immediately.  Be honest with your veterinarian about the length of time a mass has been evident.  Abnormalities that are detected sooner allow a better chance for the cancer to be controlled or cured. 
  • Do not give up if your pet is diagnosed with cancer.  Many treatment options are offered for a reasonable cost.   Most cancer can be treated with less than $200.  Extensive surgery can increase the cost, but fortunately most animals do not require this procedure. 

Dr. Dewhirst gave listeners a list provided by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) of cancer symptoms.  Get your pets checked out immediately if they display any of the following. 

  • Abnormal swelling or growths (mark lumps with a marker to make them more visible to your veterinarian)
  • Sores that won’t heal
  • Weight loss (with or without anorexia)
  • Bleeding or discharges
  • Offensive odors (such as mouth odors)
  • Difficulty eating or swallowing
  • Exercise intolerance
  • Lameness or stiffness (even mild)
  • Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating

Rescue of the Week: The SOS (Save our Snoopies) Beagle Rescue

  • 06-130:The SOS (Save our Snoopies) Beagle Rescue was founded in 1994 and was one of the first beagle rescues of its kind in the country.  It is a non-profit organization with two chapters, one in New Jersey and one in Tennessee.  The SOS Beagle Rescue has assisted in finding loving homes for thousands of rescued beagles, with over 1000 successful adoptions.  To learn more about this rescue, visit http://www.sosbeagles.org/index.html or our rescue page!